10 reasons to try aromatherapy

Aromatherapy is incredibly powerful and the right scents can help the body and mind relax and de-stress. Lavender and ylang ylang are both known for their de-stressing properties. Using the oils within an aromatherapy massage is a great way to help relieve stress.

2. It can reduce anxiety

As stress and anxiety are commonly linked, aromatherapy can also help reduce feelings of anxiety. One way you can use essential oils to help anxiety is to incorporate an oil burner or scented candle into your mindfulness practice/meditation.

Focusing on the present moment has been known to help anxiety and an easy way to ground yourself in the ‘now’ is to focus on your senses, what you can smell for example.

3. It can help you sleep

People with insomnia are often encouraged to try aromatherapy. Relaxing scents can form part of a wind-down routine to help prepare both body and mind for a restful sleep. Try burning a relaxing scent or incorporating essential oils in your evening bath.

4. It can complement chronic pain treatment

Chronic pain treatment is often multi-pronged and will be managed by a medical team. Aromatherapy can often be used alongside this treatment to help reduce associated anxiety and even help to relax muscles.

According to Cancer Research UK, many people with cancer turn to aromatherapy to complement conventional treatment. It appears to make patients feel happier and more able to cope with the changes happening and may help to reduce pain and anxiety in the short-term.

7. It can help with tension headaches

Peppermint, clary sage and lavender are known for helping to reduce pain. Aromatherapy massages in particular can be very helpful for those with tension headaches as it helps remove tension in the back and shoulders that contributes to these headaches.

8. It can ease symptoms of colds and flu

Menthol and eucalyptus oils can help clear blocked airways when inhaled, helping to ease congestion and improve symptoms of cold and flu. Try adding a few drops to a bowl of hot water and inhale the steam.

9. It can help fight fatigue

Whilst aromatherapy is well known for inducing relaxation, it can also lift your energy levels and help you feel alert. Try citrus and menthol scents to help perk you up.

10. It is a natural treatment with little to no side-effects

Essential oils are natural and completely safe when used correctly with no side-effects. For advice on using aromatherapy at home, we recommend seeing an aromatherapist.